Kaze Optimistic About Chiefs' Prospects in CAF Confederation Cup

Kaizer Chiefs Coach Cedric Kaze Expresses Confidence in CAF Competition

Kaizer Chiefs coach Cedric Kaze is confident in his team's ability to compete at the highest level in the CAF Confederation Cup, referring to the teams that reached the group stage as “serious clients.”

The Chiefs secured their spot in the group stages after defeating AS Simba 3–1 in the second leg of the preliminary round at Dobsonville Stadium, winning 3–1 on aggregate.

This prestigious competition features several formidable teams, including Wydad Casablanca, Zamalek, CR Belouizdad, USM Alger, ZESCO United, Azam, Maniema Union, San Pedro, OC Safi, Singida Black Stars, Al Masry, Étoile du Sahel, Djoliba, Otoho, and South Africa’s Stellenbosch FC.

The draw for the CAF Interclub Group Stage for both the CAF Champions League and the Confederation Cup is scheduled for Monday, 3 November, at the SuperSport studios in Johannesburg at 13h00 local time.

Kaze commented on the strength of the competition, stating, “I was checking on the teams that are in the CAF Confederation Cup — these are serious clients. There’s Zamalek, Wydad, Belouizdad — very strong teams. We’re happy to have qualified and to be able to compete. These kinds of games will definitely add experience and belief to the players, showing them that they can make things happen.”

In terms of injuries, Kaze provided an update on winger Glody Lilepo, who played a crucial role in the game by assisting the first goal. After scoring the third goal, Lilepo did not return for the second half and was replaced by Pule Mmodi.

“We’ll have to discuss it with the medical team, but it looks like a knock — not a serious injury,” Kaze noted. “If it were muscular, that would be more concerning. I think it’s just a knock — one or two days of ice and he should be ready for Friday’s match against Durban City at Moses Mabhida Stadium.”